Hon. Amina Gerba: My question is for the Government Representative in the Senate.

Senator Gold, we all work to promote our country in the world, and Montreal has become an international showcase that welcomes a multitude of international conferences and investors.

However, delegates who want to participate in this type of conference are being denied visas to enter Canada because Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada believes that they will simply stay in Canada and not return home.

This terrible situation is damaging the reputation of our immigration system and undermining many opportunities.

Senator Gold, when will the government find a way to make it easier to obtain temporary visas, especially for potential investors, professionals and parents of students who are living in our country?

Hon. Marc Gold (Government Representative in the Senate): Thank you, honourable colleague, for raising this important question. I completely understand your concerns.

The government has brought in a number of resources to help us improve our immigration system.

Regarding your question in particular, I will follow up with the government and come back to you as soon as I have a response.